Iowa City center diagnoses some cats with disease

Officials say some cats at an Iowa City adoption center have been diagnosed with a contagious viral disease.

The Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center said Monday that some cats have feline panleukopenia. The virus is similar to the canine parvovirus, which requires quarantine. It is exclusive to cats and cannot be spread to humans or dogs.

The development means the facility’s cat room will remain closed until at least February 25th. It was previously scheduled to open Monday.

Cats and kittens will not be available for viewing until the room reopens. Cats will also not be dropped off at the facility. The center is asking for donations of towels, bleach and soap.